An article out in yesterday’s Daily Mail Online has indicated that up to 1.5 million people have been sold “rip-off wills” by our high street banks. You may recall that during the 1990’s and early 2000’s a number of banks were offering will writing services as an added extra to their accounts and mortgage deals. Some banks offered free wills provided that you had a certain account with them or offered wills at what was considered a discounted rate compared to those offered by solicitors and will specialists. Although initially confirming your wishes about what would happen to your money and property when you passed away, some of these wills included onerous provisions in the small print that could end up leaving your proposed beneficiaries with a lot less than what you had intended.

A recent freedom of information request has revealed that the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) carried out over 40% more investigations in the 2017/2018 financial year in to the actions of attorneys and deputies compared with the previous year. These investigations take place when there are allegations or concerns of abuse of such roles.

Ramsdens Solicitors announced three new Partners in its latest annual promotions round. They also promoted nine staff to associate and senior associate roles. These promotions will significantly bolster the firm's Family, Private Client, Corporate and Commercial and Commercial Property teams.

The understanding and awareness of Dementia is increasing as more and more people are willing to speak out about their experiences, take action and break down barriers and stigmas. We appreciate that the subjects of capacity, memory, Wills and death can be daunting to talk about, but they are necessary discussions to have. If you are uncertain on how best to talk about these subjects, possibly because you are unsure how you would go about getting your legal affairs in order; or, you just don’t feel you need to; or, something else entirely, then discussing these earlier on in your life is a positive step, as you will be better equipped to deal with life’s rollercoaster.

‘Our mission is to transform the landscape of dementia forever. Until the day we find a cure, we will strive to create a society where those affected by dementia are supported and accepted, able to live in their community without fear or prejudice.’– Alzheimer’s Society

A Deputy is a person appointed by the Court of Protection to manage the finances and/or personal welfare of another person who lacks the mental capacity to manage their affairs themselves. Once a person has lost their mental capacity a deputyship application by a third party may be necessary and indeed may be the only alternative if the person lacking capacity has not previously made a Lasting Power of Attorney.

There are 850,000 people with dementia in the UK, with numbers set to rise to over 1 million by 2025. This will soar to 2 million by 2051. 225,000 will develop dementia this year, that’s one every three minutes. 1 in 6 people over the age of 80 have dementia. 70 per cent of people in care homes have dementia or severe memory problems. There are over 40,000 people under 65 with dementia in the UK. More than 25,000 people from black, Asian and minority ethnic groups in the UK are affected.

Dementia Action Week (previously Dementia Awareness Week) takes place from 21st - 27th May and the Alzheimer’s Society are calling on everyone to take action, whether it is only a small action, it can have a big impact. This is to help improve the everyday lives of people affected by dementia and create a dementia friendly UK.